Chelsea reaches deal with Bayer Leverkusen to sign Schuerrle

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The Canadian Press6/13/2013 9:43:05 AM

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LONDON -- Germany forward Andre Schuerrle is close to completing his protracted switch from Bayer Leverkusen to Chelsea, in what would be Jose Mourinho's first signing since returning as manager of the Premier League club.

Chelsea said Thursday that it had reached an agreement with Leverkusen over the transfer of Schuerrle, who must now complete personal terms and pass a medical.

No financial details were disclosed, although British media is reporting Schuerrle will cost the Europa League champions 18 million pounds ($28.2 million).

The 22-year-old forward has been a long-time target of Chelsea, going back way before Mourinho agreed a four-year deal to return to Stamford Bridge.

Kevin de Bruyne had been expected to be a makeweight in the deal but there was no mention of the 21-year-old Belgium international in Chelsea's short statement. De Bruyne and Schuerrle both usually play as left wingers.

Mourinho said last week he was expecting to add some fresh faces to the squad before the start of the new season, but pledged to bring youth players through to the first team.

Schuerrle started his career at Mainz before joining Leverkusen in 2011, by which time he had made his debut for Germany. He has 24 international caps, scoring seven goals.